Muirkirk Primary celebrates silver Rights Respecting Award
Muirkirk Primary held a special celebration recently, to mark earning a Silver: Rights Respecting Award from UNICEF, a leading organisation supporting children and their rights across the world.
The school had to demonstrate that the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child had been embedded into their ethos and curriculum.
The silver award recognises the approach the school takes to teaching and practicing children’s rights, that respect is built into the school culture and that positive relationships are recognised as key, helping create a more respectful, safe and empowering environment.
Head Teacher Anne McLean asked the children how they would like to celebrate their success and they chose a Rights Respecting Rave! They had to say no more - Mrs McLean understood the assignment, she booked a DJ and purchased some glow sticks, while the children brought the party.
Mrs McLean said: “Everyone has worked so hard throughout the school to earn the UNCRC Rights Respecting Schools Silver Award and we thought it was really important to celebrate that success and for the children to choose how they want to celebrate.
“And they chose a Rights Respecting Rave! It was a wonderful celebration and everyone had a ball.
“As a school we are determined to ensure that the children feel safe, build good relationships, are active and involved in school life and the wider world. The Rights Respecting Schools programme ensures that these principles are embedded and also underpin all the work carried out within the school.
“I am very proud of the children and all the staff within the school, earning a silver award reflects our commitment to creating a positive and kind learning environment.”
Councillor Elaine Cowan, Spokesperson for Education and, Children and Young People said: “I am delighted to offer my congratulations to Muirkirk Primary on earning their Silver: Rights Respecting Award from UNICEF.
“There are four key areas of impact for children and young people at a Rights Respecting school – wellbeing, participation, relationships and self-esteem. The aim of the journey is to ensure that the children and young people are healthier and happier, that they feel safe, and that they have better relationships.
“I have to admit the Rights Respecting Rave did make me laugh - what a great way to celebrate and that the children choose this is even better! Huge congratulations to Head Teacher Anne McLean and the whole school.”
Every Early Childhood Centre and school in East Ayrshire is committed to promoting rights of children and young people and this is a central feature of improvement plans in all establishments.